Te Puia is an absolutely stunning and fascinating place — the geothermal landscape, the geysers, and the deep Māori heritage make it truly unique and worth visiting. The grounds are beautifully maintained, and the cultural spirit of the place is unmistakable. However, the guided tour was quite disappointing. It felt overly long and slow-paced — 90 minutes, with at least half of that time spent standing around without much happening. While I fully understand that the tour is an important source of income for the Māori community, visitors also value their time and expect an engaging, well-structured experience. Several people in our group clearly lost interest, which is unfortunate because Te Puia has so much to offer. Suggested improvements: • Shorten the tour to 45–60 minutes, focusing on the most interesting and meaningful parts. • Add more interactive or live elements — demonstrations, Q&A sessions, brief performances, or moments for guests to engage directly. • Consider offering two options: a standard tour and a premium cultural experience, so guests can choose the depth they want. • Train guides to keep the storytelling dynamic, with more energy and interaction. The place itself is extraordinary — it just deserves a tour program that matches its beauty and cultural significance. With a few thoughtful changes, Te Puia could easily become one of the most memorable experiences in New Zealand.

What an amazing experience! Our tour guide Hunter was fantastic and shared loads of interesting information about his people and culture. It was so good to see the arts institute and the people keeping Maori culture alive. The geysers also put on a spectacular show for us, going off multiple times while we were there. We also got to see some Kiwis for the first time! Then in the evening, the buffet was great, especially the Hangi cooked food! Then the cultural performance at the end was incredible. Well worth the money as we had a blast for several hours! Ka pai!

An absolutely amazing and informative day! As two uk tourists who had never been to a geothermal area, and had only been in NZ for 3 weeks, this was the perfect place to learn about the geothermal activity in the area and how the people there view it. We did the Tuku Iho trail, which was a perfect length of time, we saw everything and getting to eat the sweetcorn cooked in the hot pool was definitely one of the best parts. Paul our tour guide was so great, obviously very passionate and knowledgeable, chatted with us while we walked between sites, and really clear with his descriptions. It’s quite a lot of walking and not too much stopping (although we stopped by the hot pool while cooking/eating for 30 mins, and you could’ve sat for 15 mins while we watched the geysers), so be aware if walking for most of 3 hours would be too much for you. Overall, an amazing day! Would recommend to anyone wanting to see the geothermal stuff as well as learning from someone who’s connected to the area. The park itself is great, lots of info boards to read. The arts building is definitely worth a visit, it’s interesting to learn how their arts are made and to see the culture being supported with new apprentices all the time. Also a great gift shop if that’s something you like! We saw the geysers errupting and the mud pools bubbling away so can’t complain. Not too busy in the park - end of November when we visited.

A truely wonderful experience and a must for visitors to not only Rotorua but to New Zealand and the magnificent islands. The beauty is how New Zealand has embraced the Māori culture and rich history. This experience includes everything from traditional dancing show to seeing the springs to a lovely buffet dinner. The attraction is only a 5 minute drive from town centre so is easy to reach, but make sure you book tickets in advance! Enjoy

This is a must do if you visit Rotorua. From understanding Māori traditions, craft education, geothermal geysers, and kiwi conservation through to a fantastic cultural experience with song, dance and a haka. And yes if you are lucky you will get to see one of the kiwi birds in their nocturnal house. Our guide Ngahuia was excellent and was passionate about telling her tribe and ancestors story. A fantastic couple of hours. Highly recommend a visit and make sure you book tickets in advance and ones that include the cultural performances. Afterwards we visited the Pataki Kai cafe for a panini and drinks. Nice end to the visit.

This experience was fantastic. We did the Te Po combo. The guided tour through the school was so much more than I thought it would be. I learned a lot and I love the idea behind the school. Its such a lovely concept. The dinner was also great. I wasnt expecting much but the food options were plentiful and everything was so delicious. Cultural performance was stunning and fun and beautiful all at the same time. Seeing the geyser at night was beautiful. So peaceful and pretty. I highly recommend doing this option and taking in all the culture and history. Everyone who works at Te Puia is very passionate about their Mouri heritage. Thank you

This was an excellent 2-hour combo experience, which consisted of 3 parts: Māori arts and craft (with an introduction to the different schools and art forms), the valley of the geysers, and the dance performance. We also got to see a kiwi! It was well paced. Informative. The show was spectacular and we had wonderful views of the geysers. Also, the shop had the best NZ souvenir selection we saw in New Zealand.

My family of three had a wonderful time at the spa. We were warmly welcomed and shown around. The setting is fabulous - right on Lake Rotorua and totally private. There are five pools of varying temperatures plus a freezing cold plunge pool. We tried everything! It was so relaxing and invigorating. The hour long Swedish massages were also terrific. Very friendly staff. Lovely to sit in a super comfy chair after the massage and take in the view sipping herbal teas.

We just did the pavilion pool package . Access to 8 pools from a pool to swim in to very shallow pools to rest in . We found initially the complex was very quiet ( 230 ish ) and very tranquil. It did get much busier about 4pm with 3 separate large groups arriving . We didn’t book and just turned up and straight in . Overall a very relaxed and great experience . There are two different “springs “ / source of waters . Personally the alkaline was best for me and great for my skin . There are showers with separate men and women changing areas . A locker can be shared for keeping your valuables at a cost . Clothes etc are stored in a plastic basket but great if you need a towel or cap . Anything in the locker means you can only access once or buy again . There is shade but most pools are also open to the sun . I really enjoyed the experience , but take a bottle to use the drinking stations as the pool water is warm. It’s good to take breaks and hydrate.

Just exceptional, hubby booked the deluxe romantic package. We had the pre-soak, massage with Evie and Saira (both just incredible at their job, they made us feel so relaxed) followed by the private soak in the private pools. We’ll definitely be revisiting when we return to NZ. We also got a free gift which was lovely. Staff were super nice as well!

WOW, what a wonderful experience. The massage was the best. We were looked after so well and made feel so freshed and relaxed. The hot spring pools are just amazing to help with skin, aches and pains. The platter in the package was delightful and the fresh juice was refreshing. I would recommend this experience to anyone wanting to feel rejuvenated.

An amazing experience. 100% relax. Me and my friend booked an entrance to the deluxe pools that are made out of natural rock and look directly over the lake. an amazing experience, very quiet and we really loved the variety of temperatures without being too complicated or flashy.

The staff and spa itself are excellent. It was super nice and relaxing, great amenities, fantastic location etc. I would 100% recommend going, as it is fantastic. The reason why I am giving it a 4 star (instead of 5) is that I felt like the pavilion part was too crowded. There were times where I couldn’t get a spot in a pool as it was too full. I wonder if the limit of number of people allowed to access the facility at any one time needs to be revisited and reduced.

Great Spa, But Hygiene Rules Need to Be Enforced I’m a Rotorua local and visit the Polynesian Spa almost every day. It’s a beautiful and relaxing place, but lately I’ve noticed some group tour visitors behaving in ways that make the experience uncomfortable for others. Some people change clothes outside the changing rooms, enter the pools wearing their regular clothes or underwear instead of swimwear, and even spit or blow water out into the pool. It’s unpleasant and unhygienic. After COVID, everyone should understand the importance of cleanliness and public manners. I hope the management will give stronger reminders or warnings about proper spa etiquette to keep this world-famous place clean and enjoyable for all visitors.

Absolutely stunning experience! Walking high among the giant redwoods felt peaceful and surreal. The forest smells amazing, and the views from the bridges are beautiful. I went for the night walk — the lights and soft music made it feel magical, almost cinematic. It’s a bit pricey for the length of the walk, but totally worth it for the atmosphere and photos.

The hiking trip was a great experience, made even better by the clear and easy-to-follow signage along the trails. The signs not only guided the way but also provided a range of walking options with different time durations, making it convenient to choose a route that suited our pace and preference. The variety ensured that both casual walkers and more seasoned hikers could enjoy the area comfortably.

We went just after a coupe of days of non-stop rain and personally was worried it will be ruined but found it just as exiting and quite fresh and alive due to the rain. Well worth the visit and highly recommended, even our 4 year old really enjoyed it.

There are several trails to select from. We walked the Green Trail which is a 5k loop. There are steps to get to the scenic overlook, but not too difficult. Throughout there are benches to rest and enjoy the peaceful forest. The trek is all about the towering Redwoods and worth the excursion.

We loved walking through the forest in the late afternoon with the sun piercing through. There was hardly anybody in the forest. Make sure to visit the creek, its stunning! Ample parking nearby and great signage so it’s hard to get lost!

Google Maps Review (short version): ⭐ 5.0 — “A magical forest that comes alive at night.” When darkness falls, the forest doesn’t sleep — it glows. Hundreds of gentle lights shimmer among the redwoods and ferns, turning the night into pure enchantment. Absolutely unforgettable experience. 🌌

We just did the half hour red route after doing the tree walk. Well worth strolling past the giant trees, there is a small rise, but all easy well marked trail: nothing too strenuous.

sadly the huge museum building was closed off due to renovations but the place is really pretty, huge dpaces of empty space just grass tho, buy still relaxing and worth the visit

We came at the onset of spring and the flowers have not exactly bloom or if would have been better eg the rose garden were just seedlings when we came. However, some interesting places like the hot springs and statues of old war heros. Recommended especially to those who like walking, calming places and history buffs.

Beautiful spot to visit. The garden & grounds are immaculate. My child loved exploring around the area.

Nice green space with various pieces of art and Māori sculptures. Really enjoyed walking around and visiting the thermal spring area too.

Such beautiful gardens. Seating available. Public toilets close by. And a cool playground for the kids. So pack a picnic and have a great day out.

Government Gardens in Rotorua, New Zealand, are a public park on the shore of Lake Rotorua. The scenic beauty, land scales, architecture are just so unique. The sulphur lake and the geothermal lakes are just so mesmerising. It has a museum to its side, but a massive work was going on so we didn't visit it.

Nice, the bath pool building and behind it seems under heavy construction of a new museum. But the monument round about is elegante and the rose garden tempting.

Great guide. She really brought the village to life with stories of her family and showing off the culinary skills of her people. Very friendly and wonderful town. Saw geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud

I’m so glad I made time to do this and I highly recommend anyone going to give yourself a couple hours, buy the all day pass, and time it so you are there for their daily cultural performance at 12:30. It was worth every penny. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly and the performance and tour exceeded my expectations. Our guide, Daniel, was very patient and thoughtful. He made an effort to learn everyone’s name and took the time to genuinely try to teach us about the history, the culture, and the language. Huge thanks to everyone involved!

It is the legacy and home of the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people, who have been sharing their unique way of life with visitors from all around the world for over two hundred years. The village is open 7 days a week with guided tours. We signed on to one of the paid tours though we had to contend with a slight drizzle. The tour is comprehensive lasting about an hour and half and goes through the village people's fascinating daily life in the geothermal springs area. It includes the bathing, washing, herb cultivation, cooking and walking past their homes. We ate corn cooked in steam for few minutes. It tasted yummy. The historical chief's home and meeting place are well preserved and interesting to see. Sometimes you can watch a cultural show by the village people. The active geysers in the area can be seen during the tour. Toilets available. Very popular place, lots of tourists and locals. Uneven terrain, lot of walking. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Parking at the entrance is ample and is easy to find. There are many stores in the village selling craftwork items. Friendly staff and great service.

It was a rainy and cold day in Rotorua but it did not stop me from my very first “Maori experience”. It was very cultural and unique place to visit for tourists. The chief guided us through the village. She did it with all her hearts and respect to her culture. We really appreciated the visiting session. We also booked the Haka show and it was very emotional and worthwhile. The artists performed wholeheartedly and the audience can definitely feel it. I highly recommend taking the tour to understand more about the Maori cultures while you are in New Zealand.

Attended a great guided tour through the Maori village yesterday. Very interesting to know that inviting people to the village and showing them their way of living goes back to hundreds of years and is not only a modern tourist attraction. A fantastic opportunity to learn and get a deeper insight from a Maori herself. Didn't get to see the dance but I enjoyed the corn very much. Thank you!

Excellent experience walking around the living village with our knowledgeable guide Wawi. He shared so much of his experience and knowledge even my young ones are highly engaged. It was perfect length for our family with young children and we got to see plentiful pools and geyser eruption. Would highly recommend this for family with little ones!

Amazing experience and great way to learn more about Maori culture and history. Our guide Kylie was very knowledgeable. The cultural experience was a highlight. Highly recommend in you are in Rotorua.

I had very high expectations for this place after hearing multiple raving reviews. The food was excellent, risotto mozzarella balls were crispy and full of flavour, pork belly was melting in the mouth and the salad it came with was outstanding. Where things went wrong was the service, we were asked about our drinks orders before we even set down, the waiter literally stood by our table while I was looking at food menu to take our order. It was two of us (my son and I), we ordered beef sliders from the kids menu and mozzarella balls and pork belly for me. The sliders arrived and my son finished his dinner before my entree even arrived. As soon as an empty glass was put on the table it was picked up and we were asked if we wanted another drink. I was still chewing my last mouthful when the table was cleared and a dessert menu was placed in front of us. 2 min later we were asked if we wanted anything else, when we answered no the bill was promptly brought to our table. We had our dinner and got ushered out within 35 minutes of getting there. It’s not a fast food place, it’s not a cheap place, it wasn’t busy. It was our last night of holidays and we wanted something special, well… it wasn’t.

Food was amazing. Very friendly and happy staff. Happy to give advice/ their opinions on food when asked. Everything tasted amazing and was cooked to perfection 👌. 100% recommend this place and we will definitely make it one of our regulars. They even had blankets available for customers if it got to cold, were not needed though as there is outdoor heating. Definitely give this place a go.

Absolutely delicious food! We went yesterday and ordered the pork belly, easily the best pork belly I’ve ever had (perfectly rendered)! Topped off with the brownie cookie and it’s delicious salted caramel sauce. We wanted to taste everything on the menu so we came back again tonight and picked different dishes. Kind and polite staff too!

I got the lamb salad and my man had the chicken wings. He got a cider and I had the tokyo tom cocktail. We travelled from Hamilton so it was really good quality food, and we got a table that was outside. It was lovely. Staff were darlings. Thank you.

We had the best girls’ lunch at Atticus Finch! Everyone left happy and full — the food was absolutely divine. We shared a delicious spread: the Streaky Bacon Burger, Roti, Gochujang Tofu, Cheesy Garlic Bread, Ginger Sesame Fried Chicken, Fried Haloumi, and Chop Chop Salad. Everything was packed with flavour, but I can’t stop thinking about that Gochujang Tofu 🤤 — hands down my favourite! Highly recommend for a relaxed lunch with great vibes and even better food.

Can’t recommend this place highly enough! We chose to eat here on our last night in Rotorua, and so glad we did! The food was divine, and the service exceptional. I am also gluten intolerant and the GF options were plentiful.

The food was delicious and of great quality. Everything was tasty, the portions were just right, and the staff was friendly and welcoming.

First of all, massive thanks to John and Sarah (the owners) for pouring their heart and soul into the food! I can confirm that their chimichangas are on another level, I’d happily drive all the way from Auckland again just to taste that glorious combo of saucy goodness and perfectly cooked dish. And Sarah, please, I beg you, do not take the chimichangas off the menu! The place is a divine food experience. I’ve gone on many rants about food spots (mostly good), but here’s one more reason this one stood out — I’ve never seen my partner finish an entire plate of anything before. Ever. This was a first. I rest my case.

It’s not often you can walk into a restaurant and know the food is going to be exceptional before you even sit down. This is one of those places. Warm, welcoming & cozy atmosphere. Service was above and beyond without missing a beat. Each component of the meal was bursting with flavours that complemented each other beautifully. I will definitely be going back.

Just had a fabulous evening at Saboroso. Superb food, great atmosphere and exemplary service! Thanks so much for making me a zero alcohol, no sugar mojito ❤️

My new favourite latin/caribbean restaurant in the country. Exceptional service from Sarah, delicious food from John. We over ordered entrees and mains and didn't have space for dessert...

Having visited twice before and being convinced it was superb, I returned last night hoping to savour it once more. Unfortunately, it was temporarily closed. Please note it will remain closed until 26th September.

Super delicious food, amazing service, great atmosphere. Sarah and her husband (sorry I don’t his name) are so lovely and accomodating. The drinks were so great, food was the best we’ve had in a while and will definitely be back soon. Pictured is Sangria, passion fruit margarita, Tres Amigos, Tostadas and Chimichangas.

Was wonderful to return to eat at this intimate restaurant. The service from Sarah is so gracious and attentive. Despite all the tables reserved for this evening our drinks and food were served in a timely manner. Margaritas are top notch. Food delicious. We ordered the calamari and escabeche to start. Both excellent. Mains were the prawn stew and chimichanga de Pollo. It is worth booking ahead to eat in this friendly restaurant. We are never disappointed with our meals at Sabroso. Tasty food, served with love.

The best place I've been to to celebrate a birthday so far. My niece absolutely enjoyed her 21st here. Thew buffet was above my expectations. Not like all the other buffets, and the view wasn't absolutely spectacular. The gondola ride was included in the package as well. The customer service was brilliant. Everything was amazing. A must do. Thank you to everyone at Stratosfare, I'll definitely be back.

Stunning scenery and plenty of things to do up there. It really is a beautiful view and a great family dining experience. With that said, for the price of the buffet, I expected the food to be nicer. It wasn't bad, but somewhat on par with Valentines. Hence why my expectation was a little higher. The service was an absolute stand out though. This was the difference between a 3 star rating and a 4 star.

My partner and I came here for our Anniversary, and although there were so many elements that made our evening magical, our highlight was the outstanding service from lovely Xiangchi ☺️ She was so bubbly and attentive! Also, the staff were thoughtful and signed an anniversary card for us which was really special. The food was superb! A wide variety for everyone! The atmosphere was inviting and well decorated. I would like to say well done to the Staff members here, we would definitely visit this place again 💛

I loved eating here me and my sisters came here on holiday to celebrate my eldest sister‘s birthday they were very nice even signed her a card and brought out a little plate that said happy birthday to her we were very pleased with the food and the variety the only problem I had with this place was that we had to go on the gondola to get up and down before this I’ve never been on the gondola so that was freaky lol. The staff were really friendly especially this guy I think is the owner he told us seen as we were the last people that we Didn’t need to leave immediately and we could go take photos On the balcony with the view of the Gondolas going up and down Which was very nice of him. 10/10 Experience would recommend

We had an amazing experience at Stratosfare Restaurant! 🌟 The dinner buffet was absolutely delicious with a great variety of food, and the ambiance was both perfect and stunning — such a beautiful setting. All the staff were warm and friendly, especially Yasmin and the F&B Supervisor, who went above and beyond to make our anniversary extra special. They surprised us with a complimentary anniversary platter and a heartfelt greeting card signed by the whole team. It was such a thoughtful gesture that made our evening unforgettable. Thank you, Stratosfare, for such a wonderful celebration! ❤️

Recently celebrated my birthday at lunch at Stratosfare. When we mentioned it was my bday the lovely receptionist gave us a seat by the window with magic views over Rotorua out to the lake. Was a very wide range of food to suit every appetite beautifully presented. The staff then presented me with a surprise slice of yummy cheesecake decorated with flowers and candle. Certainly made it a very special day.🌹

The first view of Rotorua when we entered was absolutely stunning. But after trying the food, I was really disappointed. The selection was very limited, and about half of the food was cold dishes. The bakery section only had one type of bread, and the dessert options were just two kinds of fruit—orange and mixed fruit—along with some dry, lunch bar-quality cake pieces, pudding, and ice cream. There were also very few meat options. I can tell they really tried to cut down the cost. Based on the food alone, I wouldn’t even give it one star, but because of the beautiful view and the friendly staff, I’m giving it two stars. Next time I visit Rotorua, I’ll probably just ride the gondola and choose a better restaurant for the same price

A good brunch venue with a unique flavour profile that was delicious. We were the first here on a Wednesday morning, and the service was good. We had two flat whites which were very tasty alongside the eggs and bacon on toast, and the French toast with bacon. The chef had forgotten the bacon but this was cooked and corrected within minutes. This had been recommended both in a blog and a visit New Zealand book, and we certainly would recommend a visit. The French toast came with coconut yoghurt and homemade compote which had an Indian spice taste. These were great additions to breakfast!!

Staff were lovely and sweet. Our food was so yummy and the presentation was 10/10. We went back again next day for drinks for our drive back home and would definitely go back again. Lovely people and service, very welcoming.

Such quick service and some of the best South American/ Mediterranean style cuisine I've had EVER. Waitresses are very friendly and host quickly. The food is very reasonably priced and they give Huge portions. NZ Must Do check!

Really nice. Can't believe how cool the bar down the back is, and to have the enclosed areas outside at the back - great to bring kids. Coffee is good as well. Check out my photos- they had a ridiculously giant sausage roll for sale in the cafe...

We ordered entrées for dinner, it was a first time here. The Jalapeños were quite spicy but to my liking. We weren't really fond of the Chilli prawns.The meatballs and baby ribs were nice. The garlic cheese bread was YUMMY! I also enjoyed the Coconut Green Tea, good size pot.

Good food, good service. Took some time for food to be served, but it was still worth it. Ordered the fajitas which was awesome! (Waitress recommended chicken, another said prawns was her favourite, so up to you). I enjoyed the abracadabra steak as well. Lovely ambience and not too expensive, so try it!

Pretty nice food, good service and nice atomasphere. They cater to dietary requirements and have loads of gluten free options. 4/5 stars for the bitter coffee, other than that it was good.

OMG it was very good. We didn’t think much of it. Came because the hotel recommended… We had Eggs Benedict and the Omelet of the day (spinach, onion, cheese and bacon). The bread tastes like it is homemade…Also 2 coffees. Everything was great and tasty. Price affordable. Definitely recommend.

Highly recommend this place to everyone who want to celebrate a special day! I had the lamb there and it was juicy, tender, and savory! Entree shrimp was fresh and bouncy as well. Their service was beyond the top! Christian is so professional and friendly! We had good time there and definitely will go back again!

It was pretty quiet when we went because we’re Mexican, so we eat dinner late, but I ordered the fish of the day and wow 🤩 delicious! The fish was perfectly cooked and the sauce was creamy and flavorful! Everyone else also seemed to enjoy their food with the exception of the pumpkin soup which lacked flavor. Good dining experience overall!

A completely cozy, quiet, and irresistibly delicious little spot where you can linger over a cup of coffee paired with a tiny, adorable one-bite cookie. For lunch, I went for the chowder seafood soup and the Urbano salad — everything was unbelievably fresh and delicately flavorful. The waiter was incredibly sweet and happily answered all my curious questions about the dishes. I’ll definitely be coming back — no doubt about it! ❤️

We stumbled into Urbano Bistro after a long day of sight seeing in Rotorua as it was near our apartment. Though we came in close to closing, the staff was extremely friendly and accommodating. In fact, they went out of their way for us. We ordered a unique salad but weren’t too keen on the dressing. We were blown away that the kitchen created a dressing for us from scratch without prompting. The food was exceptional (I had the soup of the day and we split their amazing wedge salad.) We were craving a bite of something sweet and demolished their delicious dessert with an espresso martini. This is definitely a neighborhood treasure & they treated us tourists like family. Highly recommend stopping in for food, atmosphere, and service.

I expected a lot more from Urban Bistro because of the reviews. It was hit or miss with the food. The entrees were good. Both my son and daughter ordered the scotch filets. My son ordered it medium and it came out medium rare. He liked it. My daughter ordered medium rare and it came out more rare than she wanted. My husband's lamb was so fatty but my son in laws was fine. I enjoyed my fish special and my other daughter enjoyed her salad. The service was so slow! We had to ask for our drinks 2-3 times before they all came out. The mains were finally served an hour and 20 minutes after ordering. I think they could have picked up the pace. Their chocolate cake and creme brûlée were delicious. Not sure I would come back.

Food was amazing. Went here for both breakfast and lunch and both times were delicious. Got the french toast and the display was gorgeous. Taste-wise it could not have been more scrumptious. Burger for lunch was good, as well, and a large portion.